Dirty Smoke

Not sure what they're burning in the firebox.   We had some Latvian coal (or at least coal that was shipped from Latvia)  earlier this year which was particularly poor quality.   It might be that we're using it up now that rain has arrived to dampen the lineside.   Makes for an eye-catching steam train blip anyway as No 3, Si Haydn arrives at Abergynolwyn.  I think this was the second train of the day.   After a quiet start, things got increasingly hectic from here on and I didn't see another train except though the kitchen door.   The last two Tuesdays have been two of the busiest days of the summer and by mid afternoon we were all feeling the pace.   Good for business and not for much longer will the crowds be in town.  There are less hectic times just around the corner.

After ten hours at work a quick turnaround might not seem the best option!   However, taking advantage of the bright early evening I met John at Rhydy and we walked Meg up the lane.   Signs of the changing weather in the fallen fruit along the way, crab apples and damsons.   From there to singing, a good way to unwind after a day of intense concentration and activity.   Mostly we sing shanties, rousing songs but we closed tonight with this gentle love song.